Maine

Maine Oversize Permits & Escorts Information

Do you need oversize load permits in the state of Maine? Find out the maximum width and weight allowed on Maine highways, the legal operating times, the oversize load signage rules, and when Maine requires pilot cars. The following data is for informational purposes only. We are not a permit service, do not arrange permits for carriers, and do not answer permit and escort requirement questions.

Oversize Load Limits

Maximum load sizes before a permit is required:

• Length: 69′
• Width: 8’6″
• Height: 14′
• Weight: 80,000 lbs gross

Permits

Maine oversize permits are valid for seven days. Must have permit prior to entering the state. For more information, visit the Maine Department of Transportation.

Legal Operating Times

• One-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset, seven days a week (except no weekend travel in the months of July and August).
• Travel prohibited in Lewiston and August during inclement weather and during rush hour periods from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Travel through Augusta requires a local permit.
• On the Maine Turnpike, travel is allowed only for loads under 14′6″ wide and 13′6″ high during daylight hours Monday through Thursday and on Friday until 12:00 p.m.
• No travel on major holidays (New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, Black Friday, and Christmas Day).

Pilot Cars & Escort Vehicles

Escort vehicle or pilot car required for heavy-haul or oversize loads if:

• Length: Over 79’11” long requires one. Over 110′ requires two. Over 125′ requires a police escort.
• Width: Between 12′ and 14’6″ wide requires one. Between 14’6″ and 15’11” requires two.
• Height: Over 16′ high requires a police escort.
• Weight: Undefined.
• Overhang: Undefined.

Pilot Car and Escort Vehicle Requirements

Pilot cars and escort vehicles must be a light truck or automobile. The driver must be at least 18 year old and in possession of a valid motor vehicle operator’s license for at least two consecutive years. A yellow “OVERSIZE LOAD” sign at least 5′ wide by 12″ high with black letters at least 8″ tall must be displayed on the rear bumper when following a load or on the front bumper when preceding a load (roof-mounted with sign facing the appropriate direction is an option). Amber lights (flashing, rotating, or a light bar) must be mounted at the extreme top left and right or left to right of the roof of the vehicle. Pilot cars and escort vehicles must be equipped with a two-way mobile with one-half mile radius of coverage.

Oversize Load Sign Requirements

“OVERSIZE LOAD” signs are required on the front bumper and on the rear of the load. Flags at least 18″ by 18″ must be mounted at all corners of the load and at its widest extremities. A rear overhang exceeding 4′ must be flagged (two flags if the overhang is more than 2′ wide). An amber flashing or rotating light or a light bar must be mounted on top of the cab. Low beam headlights must be turned on while load is moving.

The data on this page is for informational purposes only, and we do not guarantee its accuracy.